The National Immunisation Advisory Committee has advised reducing the gap between doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine.
It has recommended 8 week intervals instead of the current 12 weeks, which would see thousands of people who've had a first dose being fully vaccinated sooner.
The recommendation, to the Chief Medical Officer, has gone to the HSE which is now considering implementation.
Meanwhile TDs voted last night in favour of extending the government's emergency Covid-19 powers until November. The bill passed by only five votes - 73 to 68.
It means widespread bans on travel and events could be imposed again over the next five months.
